Top Three Sesame Oil Benefits

Sesame oil is popular in Asian, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, and while being incredibly flavorful, it is also rich in a variety of nutrients that can benefit the body in several ways.

There are 2 main types of sesame seed oil: toasted ( referred to as dark or Asian) and light ( referring to the color not the calorie or fat content). Toasted sesame oil is typically used as seasoning versus cooking, and gives great nutty flavor to many dishes. Light sesame oil is made from untoasted sesame seeds and though can also be used for flavor, is better suited for cooking.

For those following an alkaline foods diet, sesame seeds are considered moderately alkalizing. Whether used topically or eaten, sesame oil can do everything from kill of bacteria to moisturize the skin.

Here are the top three benefits of this incredible oil:

Neutralizes free radicals. Rich in antioxidants, sesame oil can help to prevent damage to the cells in the body caused by free radicals, decreasing your risk of cancer, slowing down the aging process, and protecting you from a variety of diseases.

Kill bacteria in the gut, mouth, and on the skin. Sesame oil has been used for hundreds of years as a mouthwash to kill of the bacteria that cause gingivitis and gum disease. It can also be used to prevent abnormal bacterial growth on the skin and, when ingested, can potentially act as an antibacterial agent in the body.

Treat hypertension. A compound found in sesame oil known as sesamin may be able to lower blood pressure, reducing one’s risk of blood vessel damage and stroke. This compound can also protect against heart disease, and overall, sesame oil can be incredibly beneficial for those with hypertension or with a family history of high blood pressure or heart issues.